Chengdu Airport Transportation Guide: Getting to and from Shuangliu International Airport & Tianfu International Airport

Currently, Chengdu has two international airports. Shuangliu Airport (CTU) is closer to the city center and mainly operates domestic flight, while Tianfu Airport (TFU) is relatively far from the downtown area and serves the vast majority of international flights and many major domestic flights.

To make airport transfers easier, both airports offer convenient transport options, including metro, airport shuttle buses, taxis or ride-hailing cars and high-speed trains.

This guide will introduce detailed information about these transportation options, as well as the most recommended ways to top attractions and hubs in the city to help you plan a smooth Chengdu tour.

Content Preview

• Which Airport Are You Flying Into
• Shuangliu Airport (CTU) Transportation Guide
• Tianfu Airport (TFU) Transportation Guide
• Transfers to Top Destinations
• Tips
• Travel with China Xian Tour

Which Chengdu Airport Are You Flying Into

As the distance from the two airports to the city center is quite different, the travel time and transfer options also vary. It is necessary for tourists to check which airport their flight arrives at.

	Shuangliu Airport (CTU)	Tianfu Airport (TFU)
Distance to City Center	About 16 – 18 km	About 50 – 60 km
Major Air Routes	Domestic air routes	International air routes and Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan air routes
Metro	Line 10, 19, 30	Line 18, 19
Airport Shuttle Buses	2 nighttime routes to core business circles like Chunxi Road	4 daytime lines and 4 night lines to city center, attractions and transportation hubs, such as Chunxi Road & Chengdu East  Station
Taxi to downtown	about 30 – 50 minutes, CNY 50 – 80/USD 7 – 12	about 50 – 90 minutes, CNY 170 – 250/USD 25 – 37

Basic Information about Chengdu’s Two International Airports

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU): The Original Major Hub

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) is the city’s first airport, and it’s also the nearest to downtown Chengdu (about 16–18 km). However, if you’re flying from other countries/regions, you may not get to land here.

At present, Shuangliu Airport’s international traffic has been shifted to Tianfu Airport and it mainly handles domestic flights.

The good news is that limited regional routes from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan are planned to resume gradually in the middle of 2026.

CTU is best for:

• Domestic flights within China
• Travelers who prioritize short transfer times to the city center
• Late arrivals needing quicker taxi or metro access

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU): The New Mega-Airport

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) is Chengdu’s new airport, and it is one of the largest aviation hubs in western China. However, compared to CTU, many have reported that it needs more preparation to get from this airport to Chengdu city center or surrounding attractions.

It’s located in Jianyang, southeast of Chengdu, sits about 50–60 km from downtown. Despite the longer transfer time is unavoidable, it possesses far more international connectivity.

TFU now handles most of international and long-haul flights to or from Chengdu, including routes to Southeast Asia, East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, as well as many major domestic trunk routes.

TFU is best for:

• International arrivals and departures
• Long-haul flights and major airline hubs
• Travelers connecting to other international destinations

How to Get from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Downtown

Now, three metro lines, two airport shuttle buses, taxis/ride-hailing services and cars are all available for tourists to travel from Shuangliu Airport to downtown Chengdu. For most travelers, metro is the most recommended. While if you arrive at late night, taxi and airport bus are more convenient.

Transfer Method	Best For
Metro (Line 10 / 19 /30)	Budget travelers and those carry fewer luggage or those arriving during the day
Taxi / Ride-Hailing	First-timers, families, business travelers, tourists with heavy luggage or those arrive at late night
Airport Shuttle Bus	Solo travelers and those arrive at late night
Car Rental	Families, groups and tourists seeking a flexible schedule

Option 1: Metro (Fast & Economical)

Shuangliu Airport is well connected by three metro lines.

Metro Lines Serving Shuangliu Airport:

• Line 10: The main airport line, the one you’re likely to take. It connects both T1 and T2 terminals to the city.
• Line 19: This one can not only take you to the downtown area, but also transport you between the two airports with 6 direct trains every day.
• Line 30: This line transports passengers to the Eastern New Town area and do not pass through city center.

The travel time from the airport to downtown Chengdu is 45–50 minutes. It is stable and unaffected by road traffic. A single ride to most city-center destinations costs about CNY 6/USD 1.

The three lines opearte approximately from 06:00 to 23:00, so they are not suitable for very late-night or early-morning arrivals.

Tips: The station of Metro Line 10 is Terminal 2 of Shuangliu Airport and that of Metro Lines 19 and 30 is East of Terminal 2 of Shuangliu Airport, so see the signs carefully in case you take the wrong line.

Option 2: Airport Taxi & Ride-Hailing (Most Convenient)

Taxis and ride-hailing services are best for those traveling with heavy luggage or arriving late at night.

• Where to Get a Taxi:

Terminal 1 (T1): About 50 meters south outside Exit 6 on the arrivals level.

Terminal 2 (T2): At the pedestrian crossing on the arrivals level.

• Where to Take the Ride-Hailing Car:

T1: east of the T1 parking lot

T2: southwest of T2 parking lot

• Travel Time: About 20–40 minutes, depending on traffic
• Fare: Daytime: CNY 50–60/USD 7 – 9 to downtown Chengdu; Late night or heavy traffic may be higher
• Tips: Ask whether the fare includes any tolls or return fees before departure. Avoid unofficial drivers soliciting rides inside the terminal, especially late at night.
• Hotline: 12328
• Best for: Groups, families, late-night arrivals, or travelers with large suitcases who want the most hassle-free transfer.

Option 3: Airport Shuttle Buses (To Key Locations)

Currently, Shuangliu Airport operates two night shuttle bus routes. The destinations are Chunxi Road in the city center and Tianfu Airport, respectively.

Route	Operating  Hours & Frequency	Travel Time	Fare	Boarding Point
Night Line 1 (Shuangliu Airport ↔ Chunxi Road)	From Airport: 21:00 – 04:30 From Chunxi Road: 22:00 – 05:30 every 40–70 minutes	About 40 – 60 min	CNY 2/USD 0.3	T1: near Exit 6 of Arrival Hall T2: near Exit 15 of Arrival Hall
Night Line 5 (Shuangliu Airport ↔  Tianfu Airport, via Global Center)	00:00 – 05:00, every 60 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 25/USD 4	T1: near Exit 6 of Arrival Hall T2: near Exit 15 of Arrival Hall

Option 4: Car Rental at Shuangliu Airport

If you want more flexibility in your Chengdu trip, you may consider renting a car at the airport. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone planning trips outside downtown.

And don’t worry if you have no idea how and where to do this, China Xian Tour offers reliable car rental services with GPS and English support. Come and contact us right now, and we can make your smooth trip start from the moment you arrive at Shuangliu Airport.

How to Transfer between the Two Terminals – Shuttle Bus

The two terminals are about 10 minutes’ walk, passengers can take the free shuttle bus to transfer between them. It operates from 06:00 to 01:00 with an interval of 10 – 15 minutes.

• Boarding points: The south platform outside Gate 3 of Terminal 1 and the north platform outside Gate 9 of Terminal 2.

How to Get from Chengdu Tianfu Airport to Downtown

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) sits about 50–60 km southeast of central Chengdu—significantly farther than Shuangliu Airport. So for most travelers, it would take a longer time for them to transfer and it also needs more planning. Airport bus and taxi can be ideal choices for international travelers, as no transfer is needed if you travel to city center and most major sites.

Option 1: Tianfu Airport Express High–Speed Train

We strongly suggest visitors to reach central Chengdu from TFU by high-speed train. Yes, you’re hearing this right, you can actually take a high-speed train to get to the city center. This service runs between the airport and the Chengdu East Railway Station (which is also surrounded by many sightseeing spots).

• Route: TFU Airport ↔ Chengdu East Railway Station
• Duration: About 30 minutes nonstop
• Fare (Second Class): Approximately CNY 24/USD 3 (higher classes available)
• Schedule: Multiple daily departures from early morning to evening (e.g., trains at ~08:35, ~09:57, ~10:13, and others; exact timetable varies by date)

This rail option is ideal for anyone who wants to reach the city quickly without spending too much time on transfers. Tickets can be booked via China’s railway platform 12306 or at the station. >> See more details on how to buy train tickets in China

Option 2: Metro

Chengdu’s Metro Lines 18 and 19 provides a direct subway link between Tianfu Airport and the city’s rail network.

Metro Line 18 (Airport Express) connects the T1/T2 metro station at TFU with Chengdu South Railway Station and beyond.

• Travel Time: Approximately 35–50 minutes to South Railway Station (express services may be closer to 35 min, and the services with multiple stops will take longer).
• Fare: Around CNY 10 – 11/USD 1 – 2 one way.
• Transfer Options: From South Railway Station, you can transfer to other metro lines (e.g., Line 1/Line 7) to reach downtown stops like Tianfu Square.
• Operating Hours: Generally 06:00–23:30.

Line 19 is mainly used for commuting between TFU and Shuangliu Airport.

Option 3: Airport Taxi & Ride-Hailing (For Flexibility)

For anyone who needs a door-to-door convenience, especially those with luggage or late arrivals, taxis and ride-hailing services are always the best, however, expect rather high costs.

• Pickup Locations:

Whether you arrive at T1 or T2, ride-hailing pickups are all located on Level 1 (L1) of Parking Garage 1 or 2.

If you’re taking a taxi, go to the Departure Level (L4) and follow the “Taxi” signs (in English). Taxi stands are usually outside Gates 22, 23, or 24. Taxis within Chengdu run on the meter and remember, there’s NO return surcharge. Note that the airport expressway toll (CNY 19.5/USD 3, one way) is paid by the passenger.

• Travel Time: Around 50–70 minutes to central Chengdu, depending on traffic
• Typical Fare: Roughly CNY 150–250/USD 22 – 37 to downtown hotels or major stations
• Hotline: 12328

Taxis are the most flexible but also the most expensive regular public transport option, and surge pricing can apply at night or during peak hours.

Option 4: Tianfu Airport Shuttle Bus Network 

Pickup Locations: Pick-up points are at the ground level: outside Gate G1 for Terminal 1 and outside Gate G3 for Terminal 2, in the connecting section of the Transportation Center.

Route	Operating Hours & Frequency	Travel Time	Fare
Line 1 (Airport ↔ Chunxi Road)	24 hours a day, every 15-30 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Line 2 (Airport ↔ Kuanzhai Alley)	08:00 – 20:00, every 30 minutes	About 70 – 90 min	CNY 15
Night Line 2 (Airport ↔ Jinsha Hub)	20:30 – 07:30, every 30-60 minutes	About 90 min	CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Line 3 (Airport ↔ Panda Base)	From airport: 06:05 – 18:05, every 30 minutes From Panda Base: 07:45 – 17:45 every 60 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 15/USD 2
Night Line 3 (Airport ↔ Zoo)	From airport: 18:35 – 05:35 From zoo: 18:30 – 07:30 every 30-60 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Line 4 (Airport – Chengdu East Railway Station)	From airport: 08:15 – 01:30 From Chengdu East: 06:00 – 23:30 every 20-30 minutes	About 50 min	CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Night Line 5 (Tianfu Airport ↔ Shuangliu Airport)	00:00 – 05:00, every 60 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 25/USD 4
Night Line 6 (Airport ↔ Global Center)	From airport: 23:30 – 03:40 From Global Center: 01:05 – 05:15 every 60 – 70 minutes	About 80 min	CNY 25/USD 4

Option 5: Car Rental at Tianfu Airport

If you travel with families or friends,  you may also consider renting a car at Tianfu Airport to travel around the city or travel to nearby attractions.

China Xian Tour offers private car and English support to ensure your smooth trip starts the moment you arrive.

Direct Transfers from Chengdu Airports to Top Destinations

Below we have also prepared information about how to efficiently get to Chengdu’s popular spots from the airports.

Destinations	From Shuangliu Airport	From Tianfu Airport
Chunxi Road	Take Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan, then transfer to line 3 to Chunxi Road Station About 1 hour, CNY 6/USD 1	Airport Shuttle Bus Line 1 About 80 minutes, CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Jinli Ancient Street & Wuhou Shrine	Take Metro Line 10 to Wuhou Shrine Station About 30 minutes, CNY 5/USD 1	Take Metro Line 19 to East of Terminal 2 of Shuangliu Airport, then transfer to line 10 to Wuhou Shrine Station About 1.5 hours, CNY 11/USD 1.7
Kuanzhai Alley	Take Metro Line 19 to Jiujiang North, then transfer to line 17 to People’s Park About 50 minutes, CNY 5/USD 1	Airport Shuttle Bus Line 2 About 70 – 90 minutes, CNY 15/USD 2
Panda Base	Take Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan, then transfer to line 3 to Chengdu Junqu General Hospital, finally, take a taxi to the base About 1.5 hours, CNY 7/USD 1	Airport Shuttle Bus Line 3 About 80 minutes, CNY 15 – 25/USD 2 – 4
Chengdu East Railway Station	Take Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan, then transfer to line 7 Outer Ring to East Railway Station About 1 hour, CNY 6/USD 1	Airport Shuttle Bus Line 4 About 50 minutes, CNY 15/USD 2
Chengdu South Railway Station	Take Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan, then transfer to line 7 Outer Ring to South Railway Station About 40 minutes, CNY 5/USD 1	Take Metro Line 18 to South Railway Station About 1 hour, CNY 10/USD 1.5

To Nearby Destinations: Both airports have train stations, allowing tourists to travel to attractions in nearby cities more easily, such as Leshan Giant Buddha and Jiuzhaigou Valley.

Shuangliu Airport Station operates direct high-speed trains to Leshan and Huanglong Jiuzhai Station, and Tianfu Airport has direct high-speed trains to Leshan.

If you can not catch the direct train, take metro or airport bus to Chengdu East Station and then take high-speed train to your destinations. After arrival, transfer to the local vehicle to the attractions.

Practical Travel Tips for Chengdu Airport Transportation

• Avoid Taxi Scams: Always use official taxi queues or reliable ride-hailing apps like Didi. Avoid unlicensed drivers inside the terminal (many would wait right at the arrival gates and ask you if you need transfers).
• Best Travel Apps for Chengdu Transport: “Gaode Map” (Amap), “Baidu Map,” or the “Chengdu Metro / Tianfu Tong” apps for real-time metro, bus, and shuttle info. >> See more useful apps for your smooth trip in China.
• Currency Exchange: Airport banks and official exchange counters provide safe foreign currency exchange, usually at competitive rates.
• Luggage Storage:

Self-Service Lockers (Short-Term) in Chengdu Shuangliu Airport (CTU)

Terminal	Location
T2	Level 3 Departure Hall, near Gates 10 & 12 (under escalators behind N & P check-in islands)
T1	Level 3 Domestic Departure Hall, between Gates 6 & 7

 

Locker Size	Suitable For	Price (per 6 hours)
Small	Backpacks, handbags	¥8–12
Medium	~24-inch suitcase	¥12
Large	Large or multiple bags	¥20

Service hours are usually from 05:00 to 23:00. Power banks, lithium batteries, and lighters are not accepted.

Staffed Luggage Storage Counters in Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)

Terminal	Location
T1	Near Gate 3 (Departure Hall) or Exit 5 (Arrival Level)
T2	Level 4 Departure Hall, near Gate 24 or between HG check-in islands

These counters are ideal for large or oddly shaped luggage. ID is required, and all items must pass a security check. Pricing is charged per item.

Smart Self-Service Lockers

Locker Size	Approx. Dimensions
Small	45 × 45 × 65 cm
Medium	45 × 91 × 65 cm
Large	50 × 91 × 65 cm

Smart lockers are mainly located near terminal exits, the Ground Transportation Center (GTC), and metro entrances. Fees are based on locker size and storage duration, with overnight storage supported. For a medium locker, prices are roughly ¥12–20 for 0–6 hours and ¥28–40 for 12–24 hours.

Navigate Chengdu Airport Transfer and Having a Best Chengdu Tour with China Xian Tour

After reading all of the information above, we believe you’ve got an initial understanding of how to travel around Chengdu’s airports. And the next thing to do now is to plan a perfect Chengdu tour to explore the city.

With multiple highlights such as Panda, Sichuan cuisine and the relaxing, slow-paced local vibe, Chengdu has attracted countless travelers from all over the world year after year. And to make the most of your journey, China Xian Tour is here waiting to be your best travel partner.

We can customize itineraries for you and give you all the best services you may need. Your private guide will also take care of everything for you along the journey so that you can fully immerse yourself in Chengdu’s ultimate charm.